HS Code 9027.81 — Instruments and apparatus for physical or chemical analysis (for example, polarimeters, refractometers, spectrometers, gas or smoke analysis apparatus); instruments and apparatus

HS Code 9027.81: Instruments and apparatus for physical or chemical analysis (for example, polarimeters, refractometers, spectrometers, gas or smoke analysis apparatus); instruments and
apparatus for measuring or checking viscosity, porosity, expansion, surface tension or the like; instruments and apparatus for measuring or checking quantities of heat,
sound or light (including exposure meters); microtomes: Mass spectrometers

HS Code 9027.81 covers Instruments and apparatus for physical or chemical analysis (for example, polarimeters, refractometers, spectrometers, gas or smoke analysis apparatus); instruments and
apparatus for measuring or checking viscosity, porosity, expansion, surface tension or the like; instruments and apparatus for measuring or checking quantities of heat,
sound or light (including exposure meters); microtomes: Mass spectrometers under the South African Harmonised Tariff Schedule. SARS uses this code to classify Instruments and apparatus for physical or chemical analysis (for example, polarimeters, refractometers, spectrometers, gas or smoke analysis apparatus); instruments and
apparatus for measuring or checking viscosity, porosity, expansion, surface tension or the like; instruments and apparatus for measuring or checking quantities of heat,
sound or light (including exposure meters); microtomes: Mass spectrometers for all import and export customs declarations.

Customs Duty Rate

The customs duty rate for HS Code 9027.81 is free (0%). Duty is calculated on the FOB customs value (the goods value at the point of loading onto the carrier; international freight and insurance are not part of the duty base). Import VAT is then 15% of the Added Tax Value (ATV) — customs value + 10% uplift (for non-SACU origin; nil for BLNS countries) + non-rebated duty.

What Falls Under HS Code 9027.81?

This tariff heading covers Instruments and apparatus for physical or chemical analysis (for example, polarimeters, refractometers, spectrometers, gas or smoke analysis apparatus); instruments and
apparatus for measuring or checking viscosity, porosity, expansion, surface tension or the like; instruments and apparatus for measuring or checking quantities of heat,
sound or light (including exposure meters); microtomes: Mass spectrometers. All importers and exporters must use this code on SARS customs declarations (SAD500), commercial invoices, and shipping documents.

How to Import or Export Under HS Code 9027.81

To move goods under HS Code 9027.81 across South African borders, you must be registered with SARS as an importer or exporter. JLog’s TradeReady service handles SARS registration. Once registered, a customs declaration is lodged by you or a licensed broker.

JLog Customs Clearance for HS Code 9027.81

JLog provides customs clearance for goods under HS Code 9027.81. We handle the full SARS submission — from checking documents to lodging declarations and managing SARS queries.

We also provide ClearSA — real-time customs clearance tracking so you can monitor your SARS submission status at every step.

Contact JLog: [email protected] | 021 300 6099

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS Code 9027.81 used for?
HS Code 9027.81 is the official tariff code for Instruments and apparatus for physical or chemical analysis (for example, polarimeters, refractometers, spectrometers, gas or smoke analysis apparatus); instruments and
apparatus for measuring or checking viscosity, porosity, expansion, surface tension or the like; instruments and apparatus for measuring or checking quantities of heat,
sound or light (including exposure meters); microtomes: Mass spectrometers under the South African Harmonised Tariff Schedule. It appears on all customs declarations for these goods.

What duty do I pay on HS Code 9027.81?
The customs duty rate is free (0%). Plus 15% VAT on import. Contact JLog for a full landed cost calculation including all applicable levies.

Do I need a customs broker for HS Code 9027.81?
Not legally, but most importers use one to ensure correct filing. JLog can clear goods under HS Code 9027.81 on your behalf.

Last updated: 2026. Source: SARS Harmonised Tariff Schedule.

Related JLog Services

JLog provides customs clearance services for goods under this HS code. Our team handles SARS submissions, documentation, and query management.

• Customs Clearance South Africa — Full SARS clearance service
• ClearSA — Real-time customs monitoring platform
• TradeReady — SARS importer/exporter registration
• HS Code Directory — Browse all 10,402 South African tariff codes

JLog — Customs Clearance and Logistics Technology, Cape Town